Pre-COVID there was approximately 50,000 international students studying in Western Australia but only 100 of those typically choose to study in our Region. This presents a great opportunity to attract additional students, who bring a range of community and economic benefits to the Region.

Study SW was established to do just that. The Project is co-ordinated by BGEA, who through grant funding from Study Perth, employs a part time project co-coordinator. The Project is run in partnership with Edith Cowan University, South Regional TAFE, Manea Senior College and Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School with support from the City of Bunbury.

Study SW believes it has developed a very attractive product for international students around the pillars of live, work and play. It has signed MOU’s with several organisations to offer work opportunities, volunteering, leisure and cultural activities and alternative accommodation options.

The focus of Study SW now is to promote these opportunities to the global education sector. It has commenced this by participating in university agents tours and attending an international agent’s expo in Perth. It is currently focusing on developing new marketing material and website with the assistance of Study Perth.

Study SW also seeks to support international students when they arrive, by providing information packs, coordinating a formal Mayoral welcome in conjunction with the City of Bunbury and working with international student ambassadors.